We want to let all the writers and readers interested in Crab Orchard Review know what we know about the future of the magazine even as many of the things involved are uncertain going forward.

We have moved for 2016 and 2017 to publishing one double issue of the magazine that will include both our general awards issue and our special issue. In 2016, the special issue included in the double issue is our “Family, Enemies, Friends: The Relationships Issue,” and this issue will be published and mailed out to subscribers and contributors this Fall.

These two issues will be the last issues of Crab Orchard Review in print due to budget considerations. We have budgeted for this year and next to meet the production costs, contributor and award payments, postage, and all other factors, but due to significant budget cuts we can’t see remaining as a print publication in the future with the elimination of these sources of funding.

We will be continuing the Crab Orchard Series in Poetry Open Competition and First Book Award, and we have already lowered the entry fees on both of these competitions since in the past we included a subscription or copy of Crab Orchard Review with each entry and that won’t be possible in the future.

The new online version of Crab Orchard Review is still taking shape and we will keep you informed about this as it moves forward. Thank you for your support and patience.

Volume 20, Number 1 and Volume 20, Number 2 are both available. Single copies of recent issues up to 2015 may be ordered for $12.50 online ($1.50 off the cover price) or by mailing a check for $12.50 to:

If you don’t find the information you’re looking for on our website, we can always be reached for information about guidelines, upcoming themes, or contests by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope to: